Leny Yoro faced an impossible choice in the summer of 2024. Manchester United wanted him but so did Real Madrid where both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane – the two defenders he most admired – played. Yoro watched clips of them – and United’s former defender Rio Ferdinand, whom he speaks to. Other clubs also wanted to sign Yoro but United went head-to-head with Madrid and won the battle.

United’s scouts and decision makers liked Yoro’s athletic profile and how he was so assured in his positioning, awareness and concentration when defending, especially in a high line or in wide spaces. They marvelled at his bravery and committed defending when the club had doubts about so many of the other players watched.

Yoro came out better in reports than any other defender in the world, one who, despite being a teen, looked assured. United knew Yoro should play alongside an experienced defender as he developed, but his passing was seen as expansive and creative, exactly United what were working towards.

On Wednesday, the French defender sat down with journalists at United’s Carrington training ground ahead of Saturday’s Premier League game at Spurs.

“I think the team now is in good momentum,” said Yoro. “We drew the last game, but before this we won three games in a row. We know we can do better than last game, but we're still in good momentum. We're still confident. This game against Tottenham will be important for us to go into the international break with three points. This is going to help us to be top of the league, so we need to win this game.”

Manchester United's Bryan Mbeumo celebrates with Benjamin Sesko after scoring his side's third goal against Brighton & Hove Albion in Manchester. AP Bryan Mbeumo scored twice in Manchester United's win over Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford. Getty Images Manchester United's Bryan Mbeumo scores against Brighton.